Boating Tips for a Safe Memorial Day Weekend

U.S. Coast Guard Offers Boating Safety Advice for Holiday Weekend

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As you hit the lakes, so will the U.S. Coast Guard as this week marks National Safe Boating Week. 

They are sending out a very important message tot he public before all the chaos begins this Memorial Day weekend.

With an early spring, the ice has already melted and many Northlanders are itching to hit the water. 

But, first a couple tips from Coast Guard in Duluth. 

They say the water is still dangerously cold at 45 degrees and it can take up to 10 minutes of exposure for a situation to become deadly. 

Their message on life jackets: Wear them!

According to numbers from the Coast Guard, 84% of boating fatalities happen because someone wasn’t wearing a life jacket. 

That includes all paddle sports. 

“That’s where we see a lot of people actually lacking in the safety equipment.  I think it’s probably because they think a boat is different than a canoe or a kayak. Most of the situations where people get into trouble are on small boats or paddle sports. So, definitely wear life jackets,” said Alexander Hill with the U.S. Coast Guard.

Those accidents can also be fueled by alcohol.  

Intoxication results in 21% of boating fatalities. 

So, leave the beer at the pier!

Make sure your devices are fully charged in a waterproof bag. 

The Coast Guard says they have already seen the hustle and bustle out on the lake and are expecting an even more hectic weekend.

So boaters, be prepared!